Mon Power and Potomac Edison Plan Major Natural Gas Plant in West Virginia to Boost Energy Reliability

In a significant move towards enhancing the energy infrastructure of West Virginia, Mon Power and Potomac Edison, both subsidiaries of FirstEnergy Corp., have announced the selection of a 35-acre site in Maidsville for a new natural gas power plant. This facility will be capable of generating 1,200 megawatts, which is expected to provide enough electricity to power around half a million homes.

The need for new power generation sources has never been greater, especially as demand continues to rise in the region. Mon Power and Potomac Edison have been committed to delivering reliable and affordable electricity to their customers. This new plant is part of their Integrated Resource Plan (IRP), which outlines how they intend to meet the energy needs of residents and businesses in West Virginia over the next decade.

According to Jim Myers, President of FirstEnergy's operations in West Virginia and Maryland, the addition of this modern natural gas facility will complement existing plants, ensuring that customers can depend on a stable energy supply now and in the future. If the Public Service Commission of West Virginia approves the project, site work could begin in 2027, and the plant might be operational by late 2031.

In addition to the natural gas plant, the companies are also seeking approval for the installation of new solar generation projects. This includes significant developments on reclaimed industrial and mining sites, which not only promote clean energy generation but also support local job creation and U.S. manufacturing.

The proposed solar projects will contribute an additional 70 megawatts of energy, complementing Mon Power and Potomac Edison's existing renewable energy portfolio. Some notable locations for these solar projects include a 50-megawatt installation on a former strip mine at a private airfield in Valley Point, an 8.4-megawatt project near a substation in Wylie Ridge, and an 11.5-megawatt site on reclaimed strip mine land in Davis. These endeavors highlight the companies' commitment to sustainable practices and expanding their energy sources to meet the fast-growing demand in the region.

As of now, Mon Power serves approximately 395,000 customers across 34 counties in West Virginia, while Potomac Edison provides service to around 285,000 customers in Maryland and the Eastern Panhandle of West Virginia. FirstEnergy Corp. emphasizes its dedication to operational excellence and sustainable energy solutions, making strides to ensure that they can meet both current and future energy demands effectively.

The public will be informed about developments regarding the approval process for this significant project. As it stands, Mon Power and Potomac Edison are actively engaging in their plans to enhance energy reliability and affordability, paving the way for a more resilient energy future in West Virginia.

Topics Energy)

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